In the tapestry of Hindu traditions, Tulsi Vivah stands out as a beautiful and formal marriage ceremony. This ritual involves the sacred union of the Tulsi plant with a Shaligram, representing Lord Vishnu, or directly with Vishnu himself or his avatar Krishna. Rooted in the significance of ending the monsoon season, Tulsi Vivah is celebrated as an auspicious time for marriages in Hinduism.
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Significance of Tulsi Worship
In homes where daily worship of Tulsi Ji is performed, there is believed to be no residence of poverty. It is also believed that a practitioner who, on the special occasion of Devuthani Ekadashi, conducts the marriage ceremony (vivah) of Tulsi Mata and the representation of Lord Vishnu in the form of Shaligram Ji, experiences ongoing happiness and prosperity in their family.
Devuthani Ekadashi and Tulsi Vivah
Marking the Ekadashi date in the bright fortnight of the Kartik month, the Devuthani Ekadashi fast is observed annually. This day holds special importance as it is believed that Bhagwan Shri Hari Vishnu awakens from cosmic slumber after four months, taking on the responsibility of governing the world. Tulsi Vivah puja during this time is considered equivalent to the auspicious act of donating a daughter (kanyadaan), helping individuals overcome life’s obstacles.
Navigating the Dates
Tulsi Vivah aligns itself with Devuthani Ekadashi, falling this year on November 23rd 2023. Commencing on the night of November 23 at 9:01 PM and concluding on November 24 at 7:06 PM, Dwadashi marks an opportune time for the Tulsi and Shaligram Vivah. During this period, Pradosh Kaal from 5:25 PM to 6:04 PM sets the stage for the sacred ceremony.
Materials Required for Tulsi Vivah
The ingredients for a Tulsi Vivah ceremony encompass:
- Tulsi Plant: The central focus of the ceremony.
- Shaligram: Symbolizing Lord Vishnu, crucial for the symbolic marriage.
- Lamp or Diya: Illumination during the puja.
- Incense Sticks: Setting a fragrant ambiance.
- Roli and Rice: Applied for tilak on Tulsi and Shaligram.
- Durva Grass: Revered in Hindu rituals.
- Tulsi Leaves: Offering during the puja.
- Flowers: Used for decoration and offering.
- Kumkum and Turmeric: Applied for tilak.
- Kalash: A ceremonial pot.
- Jaggery: Considered auspicious.
- Ghee: Utilized in the ceremonial fire (havan).
- Fruits: Offered as prasad.
- Continuous Lamp: Burning continuously during the ceremony.
The list may vary based on regional traditions and preferences. Consulting with a knowledgeable person or priest can provide insights based on cultural or familial traditions.
Performing the Worship
On the day of Tulsi Vivah, commence the day with an early bath and morning rituals. Sprinkle Ganga water to purify the worship area and set up a wooden platform with a red-colored seat. Fill a kalash with Ganga water and mango leaves, placing it at the worship area. Position the Tulsi plant on one seat and the Shaligram on another.
Apply geru to the Tulsi pot’s base, light a ghee lamp, and sprinkle Ganga water on Tulsi and Shaligram. Using sugarcane, create a mandap around the Tulsi pot. Adorn Tulsi Mata, dress her in a red cloth, circumambulate her seven times with Shaligram Ji, and perform the Aarti. Convey wishes for the family’s well-being from Tulsi Mata and distribute prasad among attendees.
If you’re considering performing Tulsi Vivah, here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you:
Begin with Preparations
- Start your day early and perform your morning rituals, including a bath.
- Purify the worship area by sprinkling Ganga water, creating a clean and sacred space.
- Place a wooden platform and spread a clean cloth on it. Install a red-colored seat (asan) on the platform.
Set Up the Kalash
- Fill a kalash with Ganga water and add five mango leaves to it.
- Position the kalash at the designated worship area.
Place Tulsi and Shaligram
- Set the Tulsi plant on one seat (asan) and place the Shaligram on another.
- Apply geru (red ochre) to the base of the Tulsi pot.
Light the Lamp
- Illuminate the area by lighting a diya or lamp, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness.
Perform Tilak and Sprinkle Ganga Jal
- Sprinkle Ganga water on Tulsi and Shaligram, signifying purification.
- Apply tilak using roli or sandalwood paste.
Create a Mandap
- Use sugarcane to create a mandap around the Tulsi pot, enhancing the ceremonial ambiance.
Adorn Tulsi Mata
- Dress the Tulsi plant in a red cloth, symbolizing the bridal attire.
- Perform the shringar (adorning) of Tulsi Mata.
Circumambulate Seven Times
- Holding the Shaligram along with a small platform, circumambulate Tulsi Mata seven times.
- This act symbolizes the sacred union and divine connection.
Aarti and Prayers
- Conclude the ceremony with the performance of aarti, expressing reverence.
- Offer prayers and convey wishes for the well-being and prosperity of the family.
Distribute Prasad
- Distribute prasad, which may include fruits, among all attendees.
- Prasad symbolizes the divine blessings received during the ceremony.
Remember, these steps serve as a general guide, and specific rituals may vary based on regional customs and personal preferences. Consult with knowledgeable individuals or follow the traditions passed down in your family or community for a more personalized experience. The key is to perform the worship with devotion and sincerity, embracing the spiritual significance of Tulsi Vivah.
Important Note
The accuracy of information isn’t guaranteed. Information is sourced from various astrologers, calendars, authorities, and scriptures. The intention is to convey information, and users should interpret it as such. Users are encouraged to use the information responsibly and consult knowledgeable individuals or follow family and community traditions.
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